Think baking soda and baking powder are interchangeable? Think again. As experienced bakers, we've cleared up this common confusion to help you bake with confidence.
What is baking soda? Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, E500, or NaHCO3, is a powerful leavening agent. It creates air bubbles in your batter when it reacts with an acid—like cream of tartar, citric acid, or apple cider vinegar—resulting in light, fluffy cakes and baked goods.
Baking powder is different
Baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate already combined with an acid, making it a complete leavening agent that works without added ingredients.
You can't simply swap baking soda for baking powder—discover 11 practical uses for baking soda around the kitchen and home.
Don't confuse it with household soda
Household soda (washing soda) is not safe for cooking or baking—always use food-grade baking soda.
